Adam Maxwell Michalowski

Adam Maxwell Michalowski, 29, passed away Wednesday, March 11, 2026, in a tragic swimming accident while traveling in Puerto Escondido, Mexico.  Adam was vibrant and energetic, bringing much joy, brightness and love to this word. He touched so many lives in his very short time, through his friendships, travels and teaching career. Those who knew him describe him as “intensely passionate, unabashedly driven, truly a one-of-a-kind force of nature who made us all better people”. Adam’s vitality and passion for life shaped both his adventures and the way he connected with others. We are all devastated and heartbroken by this loss.

Adam was born March 2, 1997 in Aberdeen, South Dakota, to Kevin Michalowski (Jessica Koth), Iola, WI and Jacqueline (Van Asten) Michalowski (Eric Englebert), Appleton, WI. He grew up in Manawa, WI and graduated from Little Wolf High School in 2015. He attended Yale University, graduating in 2019 with a degree in political science and education studies. During his time at Yale, Adam was an active presence in the Branford College community, offering mentorship and helping shape a vibrant, welcoming social environment. In his senior year at Yale, Adam was named a Fulbright Scholar and traveled to Cyprus to teach high school English, beginning a career defined by a deep commitment to his students. Through Teach For America, he spent five meaningful years at KIPP Collegiate High School in Denver, where he left a lasting impact on countless young lives. He later continued his work in New York City, where his warmth, energy, and optimism touched everyone around him.

Adam loved to travel. Over his short lifetime he had countless adventures and made deep, lasting friendships with people around the globe. He loved all things outdoors, hiking, skiing, surfing and was always willing to try anything. Adam was an amazing cook, competitive board game player and the best storyteller ever! Adam believed in taking care of mind, body and spirit and was an ardent follower of meditation and mindfulness, truly aspiring to be present in every moment. 

Adam is survived by his parents, brother Ethan Michalowski (Dany Mulet), Berkeley, CA; Grandmother Irene Van Asten, Appleton; along with many aunts, uncles and cousins whom he loved very much.

Adam was preceded in death by his Grandfathers Floyd Van Asten and David Michalowski, and Grandmother Barbara Walden (nee, Lowe), cousin Andrea Milis Horn, and uncle Dennis Kramer.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, March 26, 2026, from 4:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. at the Verkuilen-Van Deurzen Family Funeral Home, 101 Canal Street, Little Chute. Visitation will continue Friday morning, March 27, 2026, at St. John Nepomucene Catholic Church, 411 Vandenbroek Street, Little Chute, from 10:00 a.m. until the time of the Mass at 11:00 a.m. Interment will be in St. John Cemetery. 

Adam, we will all miss you terribly but continue to feel your presence in every moment! Carpe Diem!